How to correctly load detergent into your washing machine (2024)

FAQs

How to correctly load detergent into your washing machine? ›

For most top-loading washing machines and some high-efficiency front-loaders, you should add laundry detergent directly into the drum before loading your clothes. This method ensures that the detergent is evenly distributed throughout the wash.

When using a top-load machine, add the detergent directly to the drum. For front-load machines, add the detergent directly to the detergent section of the dispenser. Detergent should be stored out of reach from children and pets and should always be kept in its original packaging.

Pour detergent in the dispenser or, if there isn't one, directly into the tub before adding clothes. Always follow the instructions on the packaging when measuring. If your washer is High-Efficiency (HE), only use HE detergent. Learn more about HE detergent with this quick guide.

Johanes Godoy, laundry and cleaning expert at Liox Clean agrees: 'I suggest adding liquid laundry detergent directly to the washing machine drum instead of the detergent drawer. This approach ensures the detergent dissolves properly and spreads evenly throughout the wash.

If you have an HE front-loading washer, it should have a special compartment in which to pour the detergent. If you have a regular top-loading machine, it's best to fill your washer with water first, then add your detergent, then add your clothes.

Laundry detergent should always be stored up and out of reach of children and pets in a cool, dry area. While powdered detergents are shelf-stable, they can be ruined by moisture. Liquid detergents break down over time, losing their potency, a process that's accelerated by freezing cold or blistering hot temperatures.

If you're using a top loader or a semi-automatic washing machine, dose detergent directly into the drum before adding clothes. If using a front loader, add the powder detergent to the drawer. Once you've added the detergent, place the clothes in the drum.

Though dish soap is great as a stain pretreatment option, it's not meant for direct use in a laundry washing machine.

Your two main options when using powdered detergent are: Place it directly into the compartment drawer of your washing machine – you should consult you washing machine manual to learn which is the correct compartment to use. Place the powder in a mesh bag directly in the drum to allow it to dissolve quicker.

1 Main wash compartment: Detergent for the main wash, water softener, pre-soaking agent, bleach, and stain remover. 2 Softener compartment: Fabric softener (do not fill higher than the line indicated by MAX). 3 Prewash compartment: Detergent for prewash or starch.

Can you wash bras in a washing machine? ›

Because bras are delicate items, you need to take special care while washing them. The best way to wash a bra is to wash it by hand using gentle detergent. If you don't have the time to hand wash your bras, you can machine wash them in a mesh lingerie bag on the delicate cycle with cold water.

Instead, use this order to distribute detergent best: clothes, then water, then soap. This isn't necessarily a blunder.

Add your laundry detergent

It's important to add detergent first in a top loader, especially when you use Ariel All-in-1 PODS. They have to be placed first into the empty drum, close to the water source to dissolve right at the beginning of the wash.

Johanes Godoy, laundry and cleaning expert at Liox Clean agrees: 'I suggest adding liquid laundry detergent directly to the washing machine drum instead of the detergent drawer. This approach ensures the detergent dissolves properly and spreads evenly throughout the wash. '